Family Mediation Week shines a spotlight on mediation as a practical, forward-focused alternative to court during separation and divorce. For many couples facing divorce, mediation offers a way to resolve financial and child-related issues with less conflict, greater control and a clearer path forward.
At Debenhams Ottaway, we support divorcing couples through divorce-specific family mediation, helping them reach fair, workable agreements while minimising stress, cost and uncertainty.
Why choose mediation when going through Divorce?
Many divorcing couples are choosing mediation services and for a good reason. Divorce mediation allows couples to discuss and resolve key issues such as:
- Financial settlements
- Property and pensions
- Ongoing financial support
- Child arrangements and co-parenting
All with the guidance of a neutral mediator, rather than through adversarial court proceedings.
Mediation is particularly valuable where couples want to:
- Avoid escalating conflict
- Keep matters private
- Protect children from ongoing disputes
- Retain control over decisions affecting their future
Is Divorce Mediation right for me?
When appropriate, mediation offers an empowering alternative to court — helping couples resolve divorce-related issues with less conflict, reduced stress and a clearer focus on the future.
Mediation is a constructive and effective way to move forward. It works particularly well where both parties are willing to engage in open discussion and want to resolve matters calmly, privately and with greater control over the outcome.
Before mediation begins, an initial assessment takes place to ensure the process is suitable and to help it run smoothly and safely for everyone involved. This means mediation is carefully tailored to your individual circumstances, giving you the best possible chance of reaching meaningful, workable agreements.
Divorce Mediation FAQs
Do you have to try mediation before divorce court?
In many cases, yes. The family courts in England and Wales generally expect couples to consider mediation before applying to court, unless exemptions apply. Mediation is often the first step before court becomes an option.
Is mediation legally binding in divorce?
Agreements reached in mediation are not legally binding on their own. However, they can be converted into a legally binding consent order with the help of solicitors, giving you peace of mind and certainty.
How long does divorce mediation take?
Yes. Divorce mediation is particularly effective for discussing:
- The family home
- Savings and investments
- Pensions
- Debts and liabilities
Mediation helps couples work through full financial disclosure and reach practical, balanced outcomes.
What if we don’t agree on everything?
Partial agreements are still valuable. Any issues resolved through mediation reduce the time, cost and stress of dealing with remaining matters through solicitors or court.
Meet Helen Clyne – Divorce Mediation Specialist
Mediation at Debenhams Ottaway is led by Helen Clyne, Senior Lawyer in our Family Law & Divorce team and an experienced family mediator.
Helen works with divorcing couples to create a calm, structured environment where difficult conversations can happen productively. She supports mediation sessions in person at our St Albans office or remotely via Teams, offering flexibility for busy or separated households.
Helen’s dual experience as both a family lawyer and mediator means she understands the legal framework surrounding divorce, while remaining neutral and focused on helping couples reach their own informed decisions.
How Divorce Mediation Helps Couples Move Forward
Financial clarity without court pressure
Mediation creates space for open discussion about finances, supported by structure and guidance rather than deadlines imposed by the court. Couples often find this leads to more realistic and sustainable financial agreements.
Better outcomes for children
Divorce mediation encourages parents to focus on long-term co-parenting rather than short-term conflict. Agreements reached together are more likely to be followed, providing stability for children during a difficult transition.
Reduced cost and emotional strain
Compared with contested divorce proceedings, mediation can cut down court time and cost, as decisions will have been discussed and made before hand, allowing couples to preserve resources for their future.
If you are considering divorce mediation or would like to understand your options before taking the next step, our team is here to help.
The contents of this article are intended for general information purposes only and shall not be deemed to be, or constitute legal advice. We cannot accept responsibility for any loss as a result of acts or omissions taken in respect of this article.